A Chinese spacecraft is on its way back to Earth after becoming the first ever probe to collect samples from the far side of the moon.

The Chang'e-6 lifted off just after 12.30am UK time on Tuesday to begin its journey home, according to the China National Space Administration.

Officials said it had been successful in collecting rocks and soil - by using a drill and robotic arm to dig below the lunar surface.

After completing the task, the probe unveiled a Chinese flag.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying wrote on X, formerly Twitter: "Mission accomplished!

"An unprecedented feat in human lunar exploration history!"

The spacecraft was launched last month and touched down on Sunday.

Its re-entry capsule is due to land in the deserts of China's Inner Mongolia region on 25 June.

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